Styling a Studio Space

Styling a studio space can be a tough undertaking. You're trying to create a home-y feel without the map of architecturally defined spaces. Though not impossible, it certainly requires a clear vision of what's ahead. The key to styling a studio is to keep only what you love and that which serves a purpose. Another really great tip is to think vertical. Walls can often be underutilized in traditional homes, but in studio space, these are precious commodities. Use them wisely and to their full potential.

Build walls. Or if you're not a structural engineer, create room "dividers" with functional pieces such as a large bookcase, privacy curtains, or get creative with clothes storage (like pictured above) that both divides a seating area and keeps your wardrobe at your fingertips.

Hang your lighting. Convert to hanging lighting fixtures and free up the need for lamps. Lamps both require hard surfaces, and depending on the size, can take up precious diameter.

"Book It" by Caracole

Functional Furniture. You should shop with the words "multi-purpose" in mind. Sleeper sofas, storage ottomans, and oversized coffee tables are three top choices. A sleeper sofa doubles as bed space or a bedroom if necessary. Storage ottomans quickly conceal movies, blankets, cosmetics, board games, and so much more. If dining space is unavailable, an oversized coffee table can serve dual purposes. Caracole's 'Book It' is my go-to option for a studio space. Books, movies, and storage all fit below, and the surface is large enough for (floor) dining for four.

Coordinate color schemes. Sticking with white walls and a monochromatic color palette will create a flow throughout the space. If you like more color, coordinate the areas you are trying to define, but please avoid a color explosion. A rainbow is overstimulating at best and you will tire of it quickly.

Create a focal point. Last, but most importantly: create a focal point. Start your design by determining where the center will be. Do you have a fireplace? Where's the TV going to go? Do you want your sofa to face towards or away from windows? The focal point will determine the placement. Structural details will almost always need accommodation. Plan for this ahead of time and then go from there.

Happy space planning!

By: Samantha Palacio 

5 Nursery Must Haves

With a new baby on the way, you’re likely overwhelmed by all the must have lists for baby essentials. While we don’t stock the baby shampoo, our design experts can certainly help you outfit a nursery that is sure to please both baby and mom. Here’s a list of our top 5 nursery essentials from Rug & Home.

1. Start with the floors first. We always start with the floors first and a plush, comfortable rug is a must have for bringing home baby. We have many styles to choose from, but our most popular rug for comfort is the Bliss by Kas. In many different colors to choose from, this option features a canvas backing and unbeatable price.

2. Seating. Late night feedings are going to require a soft place for parents to land. Klaussner carries a large selection of custom fabrics for you to match any color scheme and the Lacey Swivel Glider is an affordable option for comfort and movement. A favorite for sure!

 3. Art. Creativity is born at an early age, so introduce art and whimsy into your child's world from birth. You never know - you may have the next Picasso on your hands! 

4. Accessories. Cute accessories are a must-have in any nursery. Girl or boy, we’ve got plenty to choose from like these adorable owls from IMAX.

5. Lighting. Harsh lighting is a no-no in a nursery space. Soft lamp lighting is not overly exposed for newborn eyes and also allows you to sneak in and out with ease when needing to check on a sleeping one. With so many styles to choose from, we recommend using a minimum of two within the space for times when you need full light but also for a late night diaper change when one lamp would be sufficient. Lamps are also interchangeable within the home, making it easy to transition as the little one grows. 

  Need help planning a layout? Have specific questions on rug types for baby? Leave us a comment, and one of our design associates will be glad to help!

By: Samantha Palacio

10 Tips for Rental Decorating

Twenty years ago my perception was that rentals were for college roommates. You graduate, you go to college, you get a great job, and you're automatically approved to hear those magical words: "Congratulations, you're a homeowner." You can imagine how stunned I was to be abruptly taught a hard lesson in what 'credit' is.

Long after the years of college roommates and having entered the work force a large population of us still find ourselves simply renting a home and owning a memory. I'm here to share some tips for owning the design in your rental. What truly makes a home, after all, are the family, friends, pets, roommates, and the memories you share it with.

1. Wall color. This doesn't necessarily mean paint. Lots of landlords are restrictive of renters painting or have that golden rule of "you must paint it back to the original color." There are other ways to add some pizzazz without touching the paint, such as washi tape as removable decor or using heavy starch to adhere fabric to the walls. If you want the real thing, there is also such a thing as actual easy-to-remove wallpaper as well.

Chasing Paper

Then there is always the option to paint if allowed. If you're one of the unfortunate souls who didn't inquire about the price of the paint to "paint it back" though, you may want to make some phone calls to find out. If your landlord used a custom paint color, you could find that your $30 makeover, may cost you double or even triple to repair. Just some friendly advice from a former Property Manager.

2. Washi tape. Speaking of washi tape, you might not believe some of the creative ways people are using this stuff! From DIY frames, to wall shelf trim, to furniture accents..... If it will adhere, it's happening. At roughly $3 a roll, it's a minimal investment that can yield a big impact.

3. Art. Small nail holes are usually acceptable in a rental space. Because art comes in so many different sizes and forms, you could literally cover every inch of your walls with something inspiring at any budget.

4. Shelving. In a small space, it's important to use vertical space as much as it is to decorate with purpose. Shelving adds more storage and also gives you space to display collections. Shelving in a landing strip could be a lifesaver by housing essential items needed for coming and going.

5. Under the bed storage. This should be a given, folks. Don't get me wrong - I love the look of a minimalist Scandinavian design. The pallet beds popping up on Pinterest are even a brilliant use of free recyclable materials, but you are forfeiting one of the best places of storage in your home! Storage under the bed is easily accessible (when there is proper clearance or risers involved) and it's the ideal location for storing seasonal clothing or extra linens that you may only need periodically. Please get those mattresses up off of the floor and take advantage of this prime [organization] real estate!

6. Functional Art. Refer to our post on Functional Art for decorating with your must-have collections and usable wares. Vases could house flowers or they could be a source of storage for pencils, cooking utensils, paint brushes, and even toilet paper.

7. Pillows. Pillows are for comfort, but with so many brilliant patterns and color choices, they are art in and of themselves. Ranging from $5-$100 a piece, you can find them in any budget and you can purchase or DIY covers to fit your needs. No damage or forfeiture of deposit required.

8. Give your furniture a facelift. Giving your furniture a facelift could mean out with the old, in with the new or it could mean revamping what you have currently. Take a well-loved wooden dresser, sand it down, and paint it a bright new color. A bold color against a white wall, or vice versa, can make a grand statement. Here again, you're not damaging the structure of your rental property and taking on a whole new look.

9. Change hardware. Just remember to change it back if you ever decide to move.

10. Make it your own. If you're not into refinishing furniture or you don't want to touch the walls, bring in something that makes the space your own (Like these adorable paint stick arrows).

It can be as simple as a "Hello Gorgeous" welcome mat or a quirky coffee mug collection displayed in the kitchen. Find pieces that you love and are unique to you to add a personal touch to the space.

By: Samantha Palacio

3 Tips for Styling a Small Bath

If you aren't blessed with a spacious throne, there are still several tried and true style tips to help you maximize space in this must-have room. If this room is the only of its kind, it's especially important to maximize the floor that you've got for ease of use and making routines as seamless as possible. Three of my favorite ideas for maximizing space and making the bathroom a room you will happily pamper yourself in:

1. Go vertical. Maximizing vertical space is especially important in this space where you've likely got things (i.e. cosmetics) that little hands don't need access to. Keep necessities at arm's reach and go higher with less frequently used products. There are many stylish alternatives to dated medicine cabinets these days so shop around for something that catches your eye. Reclaimed wood shelves for the rustic soul, lucite for your contemporaries, or maybe a slim bookshelf for the traditionals.

The Vargas Cutwork Decor Bowl is a beautiful selection for a bangle collection.

2. Organize & Sort. Simple wall shelves and well-designed accessories can even conceal your inventory. Personally, I love pretty bowls (for q-tips), vintage trays (jewelry, glasses, and sunnies), and sturdy baskets to house my accessories. Towels are well-hidden in Sea Grass baskets.

3. Bold Wall Color. Personally, I prefer to go BOLD in wall color, and choose an understated rug when styling a small bathroom space. Contrary to most belief, the bold color when paired with good lighting, can make the space feel more personal and like an extension of your home. Let's face it, ladies, most of us shower longer than 2-3 minutes and if you're using this space to get ready, your spending some time here. Why not make it pretty as well?

By: Samantha Palacio

5 Office Spaces to Love

In today's digital age, most homes require a home office of some sort whether it be a space to work from home, a place to pay bills, or an area for children to study. Even in the tightest of spaces, you can carve out a little niche to make the daunting task of paperwork a little easier.

1.

The simple wall-mounted surface in this Scandinavian design takes up little space and allows for storage at the floor and with shelving above. It's simplicity and function at its finest. 

2.

Carve out a nook in a kitchen or closet for a command center. Use wall space for notes and inspiration or add shelves for office supplies and storage. Colorful and functional!

3.

A drop down desk concealed in a cabinet. Great storage in an unused corner of a home!

4.

Some simple 2' x 6' boards create a standing desk in this home office at a Beautiful Mess. This alternative would work well with just a small section mounted such as in a studio space. This would be ideal followed by shelving to the ceiling for maximum storage.

5.

An office on a stair landing? Brilliant use of normally underutilized space! This setup houses tons of storage and eliminates the need for an extra room just to craft. Perfect, again, for small space living. 

Want to see more office ideas? Connect with us on Pinterest and view our "Office Spaces" board for inspiration. Do you have a note-worthy office space? Send us an Instagram of your space @rugandhome and we may feature YOU on our Facebook page!

By: Samantha Palacio